December 11, 2025
More than two years after the 2023 wildfires devastated Lahaina and shut down one of Maui’s most iconic harbors, the State of Hawai‘i has confirmed that limited commercial boat operations will resume at Lahaina Small Boat Harbor on December 15, 2025. This marks the harbor’s first commercial activity since the disaster and represents an important step forward in Maui’s long-term recovery.
While this is only the beginning of a phased reopening, it brings new momentum and hope for operators, workers, and the wider boating community who have been waiting for a pathway back into Lahaina.
What to Expect When Operations Resume
DLNR’s Division of Boating and Ocean Recreation (DOBOR) has outlined what the initial reopening will look like, and it will be a gradual return rather than a full restoration of pre-fire operations.
A few key points from the reopening plan:
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Four commercial companies are expected to resume operations beginning December 15.
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A handful of other operators plan to return in early 2026 as infrastructure continues to improve.
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Electricity to the harbor is still offline, so all commercial activity will be limited to daytime hours only — from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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Restroom facilities are expected to be fully operational by the reopening date.
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Harbor use will be extremely limited:
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Vessel movement is restricted to active loading and unloading only.
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Dinghies may use the loading dock on the east end for active loading and unloading.
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No mooring within the harbor will be allowed until further notice.
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These restrictions are designed to support safe operations while keeping visitors out of damaged and sensitive areas that are still undergoing recovery.
A Harbor Reopening with Deep Community Impact
Lahaina Harbor has long been one of Hawai‘i’s busiest and most storied small boat harbors — home to fishing charters, snorkel tours, sunset cruises, and generations of ocean professionals. The 2023 wildfire destroyed much of the surrounding community and forced a complete shutdown of harbor operations, impacting dozens of businesses and hundreds of jobs tied to West Maui’s marine economy.
DOBOR emphasized that the December reopening is one of the first steps in a broader, carefully managed process to restore activity in Lahaina while honoring the community and the losses experienced.
Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond
While operators will face limitations in the early months, this reopening provides clarity for those planning their return to West Maui. Roads and parking areas near the harbor will also reopen in coordination with the County of Maui, along with protective barriers to keep the public out of restricted zones.
Full restoration of Lahaina Harbor will take time, but this initial phase signals real progress — and a chance for operators to rebuild their connection to Maui’s visitors, residents, and ocean traditions.
Pacific Boats & Yachts will continue to follow Lahaina’s recovery closely and share updates as more information becomes available.